SENAPATI, March 26: In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Manipur Police seized 5.5 kg of suspected heroin and arrested three smugglers who were involved in the transportation of illegal drugs in Imphal West district on March 25. The contraband, concealed in 461 soap cases, was intercepted during an operation targeting illegal drug transportation routes.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects were transporting the drugs along the Imphal-Mao highway.
In a separate series of operations on March 25, Manipur Police arrested five militants linked to three different insurgent groups for their alleged involvement in extortion activities. The militants were reportedly targeting businesses, government officials, and the transport sector.
Two cadres of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Koireng faction) were arrested for extorting truck operators in the Imphal and Bishnupur areas. The suspects, identified as Thongam Ronaldo Singh (26) of Lilong Arapti Mayai Leikai, Imphal East, and Khuraijam Michael Singh (28) of Lilong Arapti Maning Leikai, Imphal East, were found in possession of three Tata truck keys, two truck challans, a four-wheeler smart card, and two mobile phones.
In another operation, security forces apprehended Tayenjam Sanatomba Singh (43), an active member of SOREPA, near Standard College in Kongba under Irilbung Police Station. He was accused of issuing monetary threats to government officials, and authorities recovered two mobile phones and Rs. 1,010 from him.
Meanwhile, two active cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP-PWG), Wairakpam Jagatchandra Singh, also known as Theko (31), and Pebam Romen Singh, also known as Naopung (28), both from Thangtek Teramakhong, Nambol, were detained under Nambol Police Station, Bishnupur District. They were allegedly involved in extortion demands targeting a shop, a doctor, a fuel station, and a private school in Imphal West and Nambol areas. Police seized two mobile phones from them.
These arrests mark a significant step in combating extortion and insurgent activities in Manipur. Authorities continue to investigate and monitor illegal activities to maintain security in the region.
